Tuesday, September 29, 2009

LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla., Sept., 29, 2009 -- The Walt Disney Company has a longstanding commitment to community service that dates back to Walt Disney, himself, who once said, “The greatest moments in life are not concerned with selfish achievements, but rather with the things we do for other people.”

While Disney has always embraced service and volunteerism, the company formalized support and encouragement of volunteer efforts more than a quarter of a century ago with the introduction of the Disney VoluntEARS program. The Disney VoluntEARS program provides opportunities for Cast Members to contribute their time and expertise to improving their communities. Since the program’s inception in 1983, VoluntEARS in more than 40 countries have donated more than 5.5 million hours of service.

VoluntEARS activities span a range of service issues and types, in many cases supporting the same charitable causes to which Disney provides financial support. VoluntEARS give thousands of hours every year working with and helping children, preserving the environment and supporting arts and culture.

From serving meals to the homeless to coaching Little League, Walt Disney World Resort VoluntEARS gave a record 204,000 service hours in 2008 to benefit local non-profit organizations and ultimately improve the lives of their fellow Central Floridians. “I’m extremely proud of the dedication of our Disney VoluntEARS,” said Meg Crofton, president of Walt Disney World Resort. “Our Cast Members are committed to making Central Florida a better place for everyone. Their contributions are helping our community during a time when it’s needed most.”

Some of the ways the Disney VoluntEARS program supports and encourages volunteer efforts:

* Through EARS to You, cast members can earn financial support from Disney for charities to which they volunteer their time. * Volunteerism projects are the focus of cast member team-building events. * A self-service Web site matches cast member skills and interests with volunteer opportunities. * An annual awards program recognizes cast member volunteer service.

LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla., Sept. 29, 2009 – Disney Parks today announced a new program that celebrates the spirit of volunteer service with a simple proposition: "Give a Day, Get a Disney Day."

Disney hopes to inspire families to volunteer in their communities during 2010 through this first-of-its-kind program. One million people who perform volunteer service for a participating organization will receive a free one-day admission ticket to a Walt Disney World Resort or Disneyland Resort theme park.

While the "Give a Day, Get a Disney Day" program kicks off Jan. 1, right now guests can learn more about the program and how to get their free one-day admission to a Walt Disney World or Disneyland theme park by visiting www.DisneyParks.com (for the United States and Puerto Rico) or www.DisneyParks.ca (for Canada).

In the past year, guests have been celebrating all sorts of special moments in their lives at Disney parks – from birthdays and anniversaries to reunions and graduations – as part of the "What Will You Celebrate?" campaign.

"In 2010, we want to recognize and add one more reason for celebration: the contributions people make to their communities every day," said Jay Rasulo, chairman of Walt Disney Parks and Resorts. "We want to inspire 1 million volunteers – people who will invest time and energy to make their own communities and neighborhoods a better place."

To enable people to sign up for an eligible volunteer project, Disney is working with HandsOn Network, the nation’s largest volunteer network. Part of Points of Light Institute, HandsOn Network has 250 on-the-ground volunteer action centers across the country and connects volunteers to more than 70,000 nonprofit agencies that need their help.

"Wherever we live, our communities need our hands-on help to thrive," said Michelle Nunn, CEO of Points of Light Institute. "We are thrilled at this unprecedented effort by Disney Parks to help mobilize 1 million volunteers into action. ‘Give a Day, Get a Disney Day’ has the potential to reach so many families and instill the volunteer spirit in a new generation."

Bob Iger, president and CEO of The Walt Disney Company, said, "‘Give a Day, Get a Disney Day’ fits perfectly with our long history of supporting and participating in volunteer efforts. It’s a great way to honor guests who are making a positive contribution to their communities."

Starting Jan. 1, 2010, guests can go to www.DisneyParks.com for the United States and Puerto Rico or www.DisneyParks.ca for Canada to search for volunteer opportunities available in those areas through HandsOn Network and sign up for a day of volunteer service. Many of the opportunities will be for projects that entire families can participate in together.

To raise awareness for grass-roots community volunteerism and the "Give a Day, Get a Disney Day" program, Disney VoluntEARS joined local volunteers in cities across the United States and Canada today. Work projects involving 1,000 volunteers were coordinated by HandsOn Network in Atlanta, Chicago, Los Angeles and Miami, and across Canada – in Toronto, Montreal, Halifax and Vancouver.

Joining the Sept. 29 effort were scores of volunteers from Southwest Airlines, which will also provide transportation for a 20-city tour that will take the Disney Parks volunteer message to major cities across the United States this fall and winter.

"Southwest Airlines strives to make a positive difference in the communities we serve, from protecting the environment to supporting a local cause," said Linda Rutherford, vice president of Communications and Strategic Outreach, Southwest Airlines. "Southwest employees give back both locally and nationally through volunteerism, with individual and personal efforts, serving together as teams or through companywide efforts. The opportunity with Disney unites two companies that are devoted to the spirit of volunteerism."

Give a Day, Get a Disney Day details:

Must pre-register and sign up for eligible volunteer opportunity at disneyparks.com. Ticket quantities for this program are limited. Must be at least age 6 to participate. Other terms and conditions apply. For details, see disneyparks.com in the United States and Puerto Rico. In Canada, see disneyparks.ca.

About HandsOn Network

The volunteer-focused arm of Points of Light Institute, HandsOn Network is the largest volunteer network in the nation and includes more than 250 HandsOn Action Centers that reach more than 83 percent of the nation’s population and extend to 10 countries. HandsOn includes a powerful network of more than 70,000 corporate, faith and nonprofit organizations that are answering the call to serve and creating scaled impact. In 2008, the network delivered approximately 30 million hours of volunteer service.

The first Disney Vacation Club Villas on the West Coast are now open at Disneys Grand Californian Hotel & Spa. The beautiful new villas, located at the Disneyland Resort, were designed in a craftsman style. In addition, 203 new hotel rooms were added to the property.

For older kids and adults, Halloween Time offers a new attraction: "Space Mountain Ghost Galaxy" in Tomorrowland at Disneyland. The scary new experience will begin as a typical Space Mountain adventure, but will suddenly launch voyagers into an uncharted and haunted section of the universe. Ghosts appear out of the starry darkness and swirling galaxies of Space Mountain, reaching out as if to grab guests as they speed through space. The exhilarating drops and curves of the journey are punctuated by piercing screams, creepy sound effects and haunting music. (Disney)

New this year to Halloween Time at Disneyland is Halloween Screams - A Villainous Surprise in the Skies. The new fireworks spectacular haunts the nighttime sky throughout the Halloween season. To start the show, Master of Scare-omonies Jack Skellington appears in a flash of fire above Sleeping Beauty Castle. Haunting melodies fill the air and a Halloween pyrotechnics extravaganza explodes into the night. Such classic Disney villains as Maleficent, Ursula the Sea Witch and Oogie Boogie join in the spirit of the celebration, and even Zero, Jacks faithful ghost dog, will make an appearance. Disneyland guests are encouraged to participate in a bone-chilling Halloween Scream-Along during the show. (Paul Hiffmeyer/Disneyland)

Halloween Time Returns Sept. 25 as Mickey and PalsAnd Disney Villains Transform Parks for the Season

ANAHEIM, Calif. (Sept. 1, 2009) – Spooky new fireworks and ghoulish screams at Space Mountain add to the fun when Halloween Time returns to Disneyland Resort Sept. 25-Nov. 1. Halloween Time offers families a chance to celebrate the season as they interact with some of Disney’s most beloved characters decked out in seasonal costumes at Disneyland and Disney’s California Adventure parks. Guests will also enjoy a unique opportunity to experience some spooky fun with Disney’s more sinister characters, the Disney villains. In addition, Mickey’s Trick-or-Treat Party returns for 12 special nights in October.

For older kids and adults, Halloween Time offers a new attraction: Space Mountain Ghost Galaxy in Tomorrowland at Disneyland. The scary new experience will begin as a typical Space Mountain adventure, but will suddenly launch voyagers into an uncharted and haunted section of the universe. Ghosts appear out of the starry darkness and swirling galaxies of Space Mountain, reaching out as if to grab guests as they speed through space. The exhilarating drops and curves of the journey are punctuated by piercing screams, creepy sound effects and haunting music. The Halloween transformation occurs outside the mountain as well, as frightening images, audio and lights illuminate the Space Mountain exterior.

Also new this year is “Halloween Screams - A Villainous Surprise in the Skies.” The new fireworks spectacular will haunt the nighttime sky throughout the Halloween season. To start the show, “Master of Scare-omonies” Jack Skellington appears in a flash of fire above Sleeping Beauty Castle. Thanks to Jack’s ghoulish charm, haunting melodies fill the air and a Halloween pyrotechnics extravaganza explodes into the night. Such classic Disney villains as Maleficent, Ursula the Sea Witch and Oogie Boogie join in the “spirit” of the celebration, and even Zero, Jack’s faithful ghost dog, will make an appearance. Spectators in Disneyland are encouraged to participate in a bone-chilling Halloween Scream-Along during the show.

Jack Skellington also returns to take over the Haunted Mansion and bring back Haunted Mansion Holiday to New Orleans Square in Disneyland. Transformed to a mix of Halloween spookiness and Christmas tradition, Haunted Mansion Holiday is inspired by the classic animated film “Tim Burton’s Nightmare Before Christmas.” Jack and his friends provide plenty of havoc and surprises as they celebrate the 40th anniversary of the Haunted Mansion in their unusual style. Jack’s return to the Haunted Mansion includes the traditional Halloween/Christmas gingerbread house in the Mansion Ballroom, with some special spooky surprises in this year’s design.

For not-so-frightful fun, Halloween Time offers special pleasures for children and parents.

· Main Street, U.S.A. in Disneyland is again transformed for the Pumpkin Festival, where more than 300 “non-identical” pumpkins will be on display in shop windows.

· Visitors to Big Thunder Ranch in Frontierland will sometimes find the ranch animals dressed in costume for a seasonal Halloween Roundup, with pumpkin carvers, Halloween décor and activities for youngsters, all presided over by Sheriff Woody.

· Next door at Big Thunder Barbecue, Miss Chris and the Roundup musicians add Halloween songs to their repertoire.

· Meeting favorite Disney characters will be easier than ever as Disney villains gather to plot Halloween mischief in “it’s a small world” Mall in Disneyland, while other characters in seasonal costumes greet guests in Town Square, Main Street, U.S.A. in Disneyland and Sunshine Plaza in Disney’s California Adventure.

· Also available throughout both parks are special Halloween treats, including menu items such as Zero’s Ghostly Ghoulash served in a dog dish in honor of Zero.

· Special Halloween Time gifts are offered in Disneyland Resort shops. Gifts include jack-o-lantern mouse ears and collectable pins depicting Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse and their friends in Halloween costumes.

More spine-tingling fun can be found in Disney’s California Adventure at The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror, where a “supernatural” event happened on Halloween evening, 1939, forever haunting the building.

Also at Disney’s California Adventure, Sunshine Plaza becomes Candy Corn Acres, with Mickey’s pal Goofy up to his tricks again – attempting to wow the world with his unusual candy corn treats. Candy corn carrots, candy corn pumpkins and candy corn grapes are just a few of the candy corn items Goofy is harvesting.

Back by popular demand is Mickey’s Trick-or-Treat Party, a one-of-a-kind celebration that returns to Disney’s California Adventure for 12 nights in October (2, 8, 9, 15, 16, 21, 22, 23, 28, 29, 30 and 31). Mickey’s Trick-or-Treat Party lets adults and children alike dress up and trick-or-treat in the ultimate Disney neighborhood. Highlights this year will include:

· Pirate’s Wharf, a transformation of the Pacific Wharf area into an entertainment area, photo location, craft area and games area

This separate-ticket nighttime event gives children and their families a chance to dress as their favorite princesses, goblins or heroes and trick-or-treat throughout the park. Tickets purchased in advance are $32 most days, while tickets purchased on the event day are $39. For Oct. 30 and 31, all tickets to Mickey’s Trick or Treat Party are $42. Favorite Disney characters, including Mickey himself, will be in attendance in their favorite costumes. It’s the ideal environment to have fun, eat special holiday treats, play interactive games, listen to “spirited” music and watch a nightly character cavalcade that celebrates the season.

For more information about Halloween Time at Disneyland Resort, see disneyland.com/halloween. This site will be updated as frightfully fun details become available.

LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla., Sept. 23, 2009 -- With the fall semester in full swing at Central Florida schools, summer vacation may seem like a distant past. But for a group of Disney Cast Members, Orange County teachers, students and families, their trip to Africa will be remembered not only in their personal scrapbooks, but also in the hearts and minds of hundreds of South African students who benefited from their visit.

The local group designed beautiful murals and repainted classrooms and buildings at the Nkomo Primary School in KwaZulu Natal province. The effort is one of the recent projects supported by the Disney Worldwide Conservation Fund which provided paints and supplies along with the curriculum for a new wildlife conservation program and hot meals for the students, many of whom are orphaned.

“We are pleased to be able to collaborate with the Nkomo Primary School, along with students and teachers from Palm Lake Elementary School to help enhance the teaching environment for the South African students,” said Dr. Mark Stetter, a veterinarian with Disney’s Animal Programs. Stetter and his family have visited the school on several occasions while traveling to southern Africa to help manage elephant populations in private wildlife reserves. “Wildlife and tourism is becoming increasingly important to the economy of southern Africa,” said Stetter. “By helping children understand the importance of protecting wildlife and the need for a better education, we hope to have a long-term impact on the need to preserve native habitat.”

During the 2008-2009 school year, Palm Lake Elementary families also raised money to provide educational materials, books, school uniforms and toys for their sister school. Additional money raised helps to provide funding for a water collection system to provide Nkomo students with fresh water.

As a result of the group’s hard work and elbow grease, the school was recently recognized by the South Africa National Board of Education as the most beautiful school in the province. Representatives from Walt Disney World Resort, Palm Lake Elementary School, Phinda Game Reserve and Nkomo Primary School all worked together to help the students, their community and the important habitat that surrounds them.

LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla., Sept. 23, 2009 – The Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) recently recognized Disney’s Animal Programs for conservation efforts to help protect the endangered Key Largo woodrat. During the AZA’s annual conference, the team received the Edward H. Bean Significant Achievement Award, which recognizes programs that contribute to the reproductive success of a species.

Since 2005, Disney’s Animal Kingdom has been assisting the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service in developing and implementing a recovery plan for the Key Largo woodrat, which is threatened by habitat loss along with an invasion of non-native animal species, such as the Burmese python.

During the very early days of the conservation program, animal researchers quickly learned that breeding this elusive species was a challenge since there was very little information about social structure, reproductive biology, or ecology. The Key Largo woodrats share little in common with the average city rat and are difficult to breed, having only about two litters per year of one to three pups.

Researchers also discovered that the nocturnal creatures also spend a lot of time building nests. “In the wild, Key Largo woodrats build stick nests that can be up to three feet tall,” said Andy Daneault, assistant curator of ectotherms for Disney’s Animal Programs.

Through diligent research, Disney animal experts found ways to successfully breed this nocturnal animal and have successfully bred nearly 30 Key Largo woodrats. The goal is to eventually reintroduce these captive-born woodrats to Key Largo to help increase the wild population.

New Wing and First West Coast Disney Vacation Club Villas Open to Guests Today

ANAHEIM, Calif. (Sept. 23, 2009) – Disneyland Resort today unveiled a stunning new addition to its Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa, including 203 new guest rooms and 50 two-bedroom equivalent Disney Vacation Club villas, the first Disney Vacation Club property on the West Coast. Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa immerses guests in the magic of the Disneyland Resort by capturing the spirit of early California through design and architecture. Many of the new vacation villas offer guests spectacular views into Disney’s California Adventure Park.

“This expansion reinforces Disney’s long-term commitment to investing in Anaheim’s Resort District,” said Ed Grier, president of Disneyland Resort. “Since opening in 2001, Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa continues to impress our guests with its timeless sophistication and exquisite service. The new villas and hotel rooms will give more guests the opportunity to enjoy the immersive vacation experience Disney is known for.”

The 2.5-acre addition to Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa, which increases accommodations by more than 30 percent, is part of ongoing resort expansion work. Currently underway is a multiyear expansion of Disney’s California Adventure Park, which will add new attractions, entertainment experiences and an entirely new 12-acre Cars Land. In addition, the resort’s historic Disneyland Hotel also began a major three-year renovation last month.

“We are so fortunate to have a wonderful partner in the Disneyland Resort,” said Anaheim Mayor Curt Pringle. “Disney’s continued investment in Anaheim benefits the entire Resort District as well as the surrounding community. This grand addition to the city’s only four-diamond hotel will encourage even more visitors to come to Anaheim and experience a vacation in our great City.”

The Villas at Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa mark the 10th property for Disney Vacation Club, Disney’s innovative vacation-ownership program. As with all Disney Vacation Club properties, guests are able to experience the comforts of home, such as a fully equipped kitchen, living area, dining area, washer and dryer, whirlpool tub and other amenities, depending on the size of the accommodations. Guests can choose from four different room categories including a studio (sleeps 4), one-bedroom villa (sleeps up to 5), two-bedroom villa (sleeps up to 9) and the three-bedroom, two-story Grand Villa (sleeps up to 12).

“It is exciting to witness the incredible growth of Disney Vacation Club, because not only are we creating new accommodations here in Anaheim, we are creating new experiences,” said Disney Vacation Club President Jim Lewis. “Now Disney Vacation Club is part of the place where it all started, a place known worldwide as the Happiest Place on Earth.”

Other new amenities at Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa include the Mariposa swimming pool, the Grizzly Game Arcade, a guest laundry facility, two gas barbeque grills, the Paradise View Terrace on the 6th floor overlooking the Paradise Pier area of Disney’s California Adventure Park, underground valet parking spaces and an expanded Pinocchio’s Workshop – a licensed child activity center. The hotel now boasts 948 guest rooms, which includes 44 guest suites as well as 50 Disney Vacation Club two-bedroom equivalent vacation villas.

Disney's Culinary Academy is a four-day, high energy program that instructs Disneyland Resort Cast Members on a number of culinary skills. Participants even receive 30 hours of accredited class time that can be used to pursue a career in the culinary arts. On the fourth day of class, six teams have to beat the clock to create a three-course meal from scratch.

This video takes you on a tour of the Bay Lake Tower at Disney's Contemporary Resort including the lobby, Grand Vista Suite, two-bedroom unit, fireworks viewing platform, Top of the World lounge, pool, recreation area, and activity room.

Thursday, September 17, 2009

TO INFINITY... AND BACK!: Buzz Lightyear returned from space on Sept. 11, 2009 aboard space shuttle Discovery’s STS-128 mission, having served as the longest-tenured crew member in space. In a photo taken Sept. 11, 2009, the toy Buzz Lightyear that was sent into space May 31, 2008 aboard the STS-124 mission is posed in front of space shuttle Discovery on the runway at Edwards Air Force Base, Calif. He will be celebrated in a ticker-tape parade together with his International Space Station crewmates and former Apollo 11 moonwalker Buzz Aldrin on Oct. 2, 2009 at Walt Disney World Resort in Lake Buena Vista, Fla. While on the space station, Buzz supported NASA’s education outreach program – STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) by creating a series of fun educational online outreach programs. To celebrate his return, Disney is partnering with NASA to create a new online educational game and an online mission patch competition for school kids across America. NASA will fly the winning patch into space. In addition, NASA plans to announce on Oct. 2 the details of a new exciting educational competition that will give students the opportunity to design an experiment for the astronauts on the space station. (Tony Landis/NASA, photographer)

Wednesday, September 16, 2009

(September 13, 2009－Hong Kong) The Disney Children’s Fund (DCF) today held a ceremony at Hong Kong Disneyland Resort to announce the nine charities that will share HK$1 million in funding to launch a number of creative programs. The programs aim to nurture children’s characters and strengthen parent and child relationships. This is the second year that the fund has supported local charities.

Sponsored projects cover various activities related to children's development, including dancing classes for children and their visually impaired parents, training in photography for physically-challenged children, journalism classes for children to learn more about their parents through interviews, magician classes to raise children’s confidence and tour guide training. Other programs include Chinese language training for children from ethnic minorities to help them integrate into the community, graffiti art lessons for teenagers that encourage them to live positively and a “green chef” course to educate children on the importance of a balanced diet and environmental protection.

The judging panel of DCF included seven judges this year. One of the judges, the Honorable Cheng Yiu-tong, a member of the Executive Council, was impressed with the high quality of the proposals. He said, “The DCF received over 60 proposals this year, 80 per cent more than last year. We were impressed by the many creative ideas from both established and newer charities. The nine DCF recipient projects stand out because their creative concepts provide opportunities for children to develop positively by participating in programs that are both stimulating and fun.”

Andrew Kam, Managing Director of Hong Kong Disneyland Resort added, “We are pleased to see the DCF making a difference in the lives of children in need. It is also great to be able to contribute to the development of local children through the DCF recipient programs. I hope that these innovative programs will play a part in nurturing the children of Hong Kong.”

About Disney’s Worldwide OutreachDisney brightens the lives of children in need around the world through global outreach programs, local community initiatives and the Disney VoluntEARS program. Last year, Disney donated more than $209 million in cash and in-kind support to various charities around the world and Disney VoluntEARS have donated more than 495,000 hours of service. The Disney VoluntEARS program provides opportunities for Disney employees to contribute their time and expertise towards making a positive impact in the communities they serve around the world. For more information on Disney’s outreach efforts, please visit www.DisneyOutreach.com.

About Hong Kong Disneyland ResortHong Kong Disneyland Resort offers immersive, unique Disney experiences for all families, generations and ages to enjoy. Hong Kong is one of only five locations in the world that is home to a Disney themed park and the many Disney characters that are beloved the world over, such as Mickey, Minnie, Donald, Stitch and Buzz Lightyear. Since the Resort was opened in September 2005, it has received over 17 million guests from around the globe. Through the unique product offering and the world-class service provided by the 5,000-strong Cast at the theme park and the two hotels, the Resort has received outstanding guest satisfaction ratings and a range of awards from the hospitality and entertainment sectors.Hong Kong Disneyland is dedicated to serving Hong Kong people through a wide spectrum of community services programs from helping those in need to encouraging the protection of the environment in the region.

A Christmas Carol is a 2009 film adaptation of Charles Dickens' 1843 story. The film is written and directed by Robert Zemeckis, and stars Jim Carrey in a multitude of roles, including Ebenezer Scrooge as a young, middle-aged, and old man, and the three ghosts who haunt Scrooge. A Christmas Carol will be released on November 6, 2009

Sunday, September 13, 2009

Re-Imagined "Star Tours" Coming to California and Florida in 2011 and Major Fantasyland Expansion at Walt Disney World Scheduled for 2013

Walt Disney Parks and Resorts Chairman Jay Rasulo detailed plans for future lands, attractions and adventures that will be delighting Disney guests for years to come, at the first D23 Expo. Most notable among the announcements were the confirmation of an all-new Star Tours attraction and the largest expansion in the history of the Magic Kingdom at Walt Disney World.

"Storytelling is the DNA of Disney dreams and we're always exploring new ways to tell new stories in new places," Rasulo told a crowd at the Anaheim Convention Center in California before taking them on a "behind-the-magic" tour of their favorite Disney destinations.

Rasulo announced that a new 3-D version of the tremendously-popular "Star Tours" attraction will debut at the Disneyland Resort and Disney's Hollywood Studios in 2011. Based on the iconic Lucasfilm "Star Wars" films, the attraction will include immersive new elements that will take guests to many familiar places in the Star Wars galaxy.

For Walt Disney World in Florida, Rasulo outlined plans for the largest expansion in the history of the Magic Kingdom, vastly increasing the size of Fantasyland by 2013. Guests will soon be able to:

* Visit their favorite Disney Princess in her castle, cottage, or chateau to share a dance with Cinderella; celebrate Sleeping Beauty's birthday with the Good Fairies; or join Belle in an enchanting story performance in the Beast's castle library. * Be Our Guest and dine in one of three enchanted rooms inside the Beast's castle. * Fly with Dumbo high above brand new circus grounds, twice the size of the existing attraction with a new interactive, three-ring circus tent. * Journey under the sea with Ariel, The Little Mermaid, in her very own attraction - also opening at Disney's California Adventure in Anaheim in 2011. * Meet Tinker Bell and her friends in the magical world of Pixie Hollow.

Rasulo provided updates on the multi-year expansion of Disney's California Adventure including the new "World of Color" attraction slated to open in the spring of 2010 and the addition of the 12-acre Cars Land scheduled to open in 2012 where guests will literally step into the town of Radiator Springs and its six acres of hand-carved rockwork.

Rasulo noted the progress of several other recently-announced projects including the three new lands coming to Hong Kong Disneyland by 2014; the Disney Dream, the new ship being built by Disney Cruise Line; the many diverse itineraries being offered by Adventures by Disney that take guests on 19 unique, once-in-a-lifetime guided vacation experiences; and Disney's first family destination resort on the island of Oahu in Hawaii.

Rasulo's keynote presentation was only part of the D23 EXPO experience. Guests were able to discover:

* Never-before-seen models of upcoming Disney attractions. * Up close and personal visits with Lucky the Dinosaur and Wall-E. * A preview of the most advanced Audio-Animatronics figures ever created by Walt Disney Imagineering. * Displays showcasing cutting-edge effects technologies that are being developed for Disney attractions, shows and venues.

ABOUT WALT DISNEY PARKS AND RESORTS

Walt Disney Parks and Resorts are where families experience and enjoy the magic of Disney's beloved characters and where dreams come true. More than 50 years ago, Walt Disney created a new kind of entertainment families could experience together, immersed in detailed atmospheres and vibrant storytelling. His vision now includes a collection of five of the world's leading family vacation destinations - Disneyland Resort, Anaheim, Calif.; Walt Disney World Resort, Lake Buena Vista, Fla.; Tokyo Disney Resort, Urayasu, Chiba, Japan; Disneyland Resort Paris, Marne-la-Vallée, France; and Hong Kong Disneyland Resort, located on Lantau Island. In addition, Walt Disney Parks and Resorts includes the world-class Disney Cruise Line, Disney Vacation Club, with nine resorts and more than 400,000 members; Adventures by Disney, a guided group vacation experience to some of the world's most popular destinations; the World of Disney stores; and Walt Disney Imagineering, which creates and designs all Disney parks, resorts and attractions.

ANAHEIM, Calif. (Sept. 12, 2009) – Walt Disney Parks and Resorts Chairman Jay Rasulo detailed plans for future lands, attractions and adventures that will be delighting Disney guests for years to come, at the first D23 Expo. Most notable among the announcements were the confirmation of an all-new Star Tours attraction and the largest expansion in the history of the Magic Kingdom at Walt Disney World.

“Storytelling is the DNA of Disney dreams and we’re always exploring new ways to tell new stories in new places,” Rasulo told a crowd at the Anaheim Convention Center in California before taking them on a "behind-the-magic" tour of their favorite Disney destinations.

Rasulo announced that a new 3-D version of the tremendously-popular “Star Tours” attraction will debut at the Disneyland Resort and Disney’s Hollywood Studios in 2011. Based on the iconic Lucasfilm “Star Wars” films, the attraction will include immersive new elements that will take guests to many familiar places in the Star Wars galaxy.

For Walt Disney World in Florida, Rasulo outlined plans for the largest expansion in the history of the Magic Kingdom, vastly increasing the size of Fantasyland by 2013. Guests will soon be able to:

* Visit their favorite Disney Princess in her castle, cottage, or chateau to share a dance with Cinderella; celebrate Sleeping Beauty’s birthday with the Good Fairies; or join Belle in an enchanting story performance in the Beast’s castle library. * Be Our Guest and dine in one of three enchanted rooms inside the Beast’s castle. * Fly with Dumbo high above brand new circus grounds, twice the size of the existing attraction with a new interactive, three-ring circus tent. * Journey under the sea with Ariel, The Little Mermaid, in her very own attraction – also opening at Disney’s California Adventure in Anaheim in 2011. * Meet Tinker Bell and her friends in the magical world of Pixie Hollow.

Rasulo provided updates on the multi-year expansion of Disney’s California Adventure including the new “World of Color” attraction slated to open in the spring of 2010 and the addition of the 12-acre Cars Land scheduled to open in 2012 where guests will literally step into the town of Radiator Springs and its six acres of hand-carved rockwork.

Rasulo noted the progress of several other recently-announced projects including the three new lands coming to Hong Kong Disneyland by 2014; the Disney Dream, the new ship being built by Disney Cruise Line; the many diverse itineraries being offered by Adventures by Disney that take guests on 19 unique, once-in-a-lifetime guided vacation experiences; and Disney’s first family destination resort on the island of Oahu in Hawaii.

Rasulo’s keynote presentation was only part of the D23 EXPO experience. Guests were able to discover:Never-before-seen models of upcoming Disney attractions.Up close and personal visits with Lucky the Dinosaur and Wall-E.A preview of the most advanced Audio-Animatronics figures ever created by Walt Disney Imagineering.Displays showcasing cutting-edge effects technologies that are being developed for Disney attractions, shows and venues.?

ABOUT WALT DISNEY PARKS AND RESORTSWalt Disney Parks and Resorts are where families experience and enjoy the magic of Disney’s beloved characters and where dreams come true. More than 50 years ago, Walt Disney created a new kind of entertainment families could experience together, immersed in detailed atmospheres and vibrant storytelling. His vision now includes a collection of five of the world’s leading family vacation destinations - Disneyland Resort, Anaheim, Calif.; Walt Disney World Resort, Lake Buena Vista, Fla.; Tokyo Disney Resort, Urayasu, Chiba, Japan; Disneyland Resort Paris, Marne-la-Vallée, France; and Hong Kong Disneyland Resort, located on Lantau Island. In addition, Walt Disney Parks and Resorts includes the world-class Disney Cruise Line, Disney Vacation Club, with nine resorts and more than 400,000 members; Adventures by Disney, a guided group vacation experience to some of the world’s most popular destinations; the World of Disney stores; and Walt Disney Imagineering, which creates and designs all Disney parks, resorts and attractions.

Saturday, September 12, 2009

LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla., Sept. 12, 2009 -- The National Association of Women Business Owners recognized two of the region’s top law enforcement officers for their efforts to promote diversity and inclusion during an awards ceremony at Disney’s Yacht and Beach Club.

Orange County Sheriff Jerry Demings and Orlando Police Chief Val Demings received the Mary Ann Goloversic Luminary Award as part of the 4th Annual Beacon Awards which recognize Central Florida organizations and individuals for celebrating the diversity of our community by promoting inclusion in the workforce.

The inaugural Mary Ann Goloversic Luminary Award was presented to the law enforcement couple because of their significant contributions in helping to make the Central Florida community a better place. Named after retired Walt Disney World leader Mary Ann Goloversic, who worked for more than 35 at Disney and helped open doors of opportunity for women and minorities, the Luminary Award is Beacon's highest honor.

Several other organizations were also honored during the evening event, including the Disney Entrepreneur Center, the Metro Orlando Economic Development Commission and the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce of Metro Orlando.

Walt Disney World Resort has been the lead sponsor of this event since founding in 2006 and has continually played a key role in the development of the event's goals.

LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. – In early 2010, Walt Disney World Resort will bloom with bursting color during the Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival; host 100 exemplary teens from across the country in a one-of-a-kind enrichment workshop; again host the Atlanta Braves on its “field of dreams” at ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex; and be the site for the 26 most magical miles on Earth during the annual Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend.

Here’s a snapshot of what’s springing up across Disney’s central Florida “Vacation Kingdom” from January through April 2010:

Jan. 7-10, 2010Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend 2010 features 50,000 athletes in magical races for the entire family

Regarded as one of the top family-destination events (as well as a popular event for marathon “first-timers” and veterans alike), the weekend is expected to attract a record 50,000 athletes for a variety of activities – kid’s races, a 5K race, a half marathon, the full marathon and a health and fitness expo.

The magical miles in the half marathon and marathon are highlighted by Disney entertainment, including appearances by Disney characters, providing a special and unique form of motivation for participants. In fact, it’s not unusual to see groups of runners stop along the race course to have their photos taken with Disney characters.

Many runners get into the festive spirit by wearing their own costumes on the course, paying homage to some of their favorite Disney films and Disney Parks characters. Past Disney marathons have featured a large group of runners dressed as all 101 Dalmatians (complete with one runner chasing them dressed as Cruella De Vil), runners dressed as Winnie the Pooh characters and an entire family of runners dressed as Disney•Pixar favorites “The Incredibles.” If it sounds a little goofy, well, consider the territory.

But some participants in the weekend are just plain goofy about running. So they sign up for Goofy’s Race and a Half Challenge – the half marathon on Saturday, Jan. 9, and the full marathon on Sunday, Jan. 10. Provided they complete both events in the time limit, they will be awarded the coveted Goofy medal.

The 2010 Disney Marathon Weekend’s Health and Fitness Expo will feature expert speakers and educational seminars, as well as hundreds of the latest health and fitness products available for purchase.

To register for the marathon or for any Disney endurance race, guests may visit disneyworldmarathon.com or disneyenduranceseries.com.

Feb. 11-14, 2010Disney’s Dreamers Academy with Steve Harvey inspires teens from across the U.S to reach for their dreams

Disney’s Dreamers Academy with Steve Harvey, an event created to inspire and enrich high school students, returns to Walt Disney World Resort Feb. 11-14, 2010.

One hundred teens from across the country will pack their bags – and their dreams – and head to Walt Disney World Resort, where they will learn about careers in everything from culinary arts to animation, from set design and show production to the business of sports and more.

During Disney’s Dreamers Academy, the students (chosen by a select panel of judges including national radio personality Steve Harvey, community leaders and Disney representatives) will participate in workshops with Disney cast members and executives, hear inspirational stories from entertainment celebrities and professional athletes, and enjoy the Disney theme parks – where they can see, first-hand, the results of people who turned their dreams into careers as “Disney dreamers.”

Harvey said Disney’s Dreamers Academy “is about inspiring our young people who often times don’t have the chance to be exposed to a variety of job skills and job opportunities and meet with people in the fields they’re interested in. We want to give our young achievers the tools to become overachievers – to make their dreams a reality.”

More information about Disney’s Dreamers Academy with Steve Harvey can be found online at SteveHarvey.com/disneysdreamersacademy.

More than 30 million blooms in artfully designed floral beds, lush rose gardens and floral floating islands plus expertly crafted bonsai trees and whimsical topiaries will grace the 300 acres of Future World and World Showcase during the 17th annual Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival, scheduled to blossom at the Walt Disney World theme park March 3 through May 16, 2010.

Beyond the dazzling displays, the Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival is known by gardening aficionados for its celebrity guest speakers, hands-on seminars and innovative planting demonstrations and exhibits.

And for fans of live music, the festival will come alive with Flower Power concerts that rock the park with some of the top names in live entertainment.

More information about the Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival is available by calling 407/W-DISNEY (934-7639) or by visiting disneyworld.com/flowerfestival. Most festival activities, including gardening programs and exhibits, are included in regular Epcot admission.

March 2010Major League Baseball returns to Walt Disney World Resort when Atlanta Braves suit up for Spring Training 2010

Major League Baseball’s Atlanta Braves will return for their 14th exhibition season at Walt Disney World Resort in March 2010.

Led by manager Bobby Cox and perennial all-star Chipper Jones, the Braves have enjoyed nine division titles while training at Disney's 220-acre sports campus, and now feature one of the most promising young teams in baseball.

Champion Stadium at the newly rebranded ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex, where the Atlanta Braves will take the field to prepare for the upcoming season, features more than 9,500 seats, four luxury skyboxes, and multiple open-air suites and patios. The double-decker stadium offers many of the amenities of today’s major league ballparks. Stadium seats, bleachers and a grassy knoll all provide fans with an intimate sports experience like no other.

For more information on Braves’ spring training season, group tickets and mini-packs, guests can visit disneysports.com.

LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. Is Disney your go-to family vacation? Are you a master at coordinating everything from character breakfasts to family reunions? If so, then Disney Parks would like you to apply to be on its third annual Walt Disney World Moms Panel. Disney Parks announced today its search for 10 park-savvy parents to reside on the 2010 Walt Disney World Moms Panel, www.disneyworldmoms.com, where they’ll join panelists from previous years to make this the largest panel to date.

Similar to asking a friend or neighbor for advice, this online forum, led by parents sharing their ultimate park smarts, serves as a resource for families planning a Disney vacation. Beginning today, Sept. 10, the Moms Panel search begins online, www.disneyworldmoms.com/2010 and will close on Sept. 20, or when 20,000 applications are received, whichever comes first.

Parents who pride themselves on being Walt Disney World vacation experts are encouraged to visit www.disneyworldmoms.com/2010 for what will be a magical seat on Disney’s Moms Panel.

“We realize moms and dads are online now more than ever, engaging in social media to research tips, connect with others and identify what’s best for their family. The Moms Panel provides an online space where they can interact and receive feedback from parents just like them,” said Meg Crofton, president of Walt Disney World Resort. “And the response has been phenomenal – more than 25,000 questions have been answered to date. With each new post, we reveal more of the magic of Disney. We’re looking forward to another year of moms creating and sharing that magic with others.”

“As a member of the Moms Panel, I have an amazing opportunity to help guests plan Walt Disney World vacations and craft trips that yield memories lasting a lifetime,” said Tanya McNally, a panelist and mother of two from Basking Ridge, N.J. “As a special needs mom, I know firsthand that each family’s vacation is different, and I feel most rewarded when I make tangible contributions to families with diverse backgrounds, budgets and abilities to plan trips as unique and wonderful as they are.”

Beginning late this year through 2010, Disney Parks will unveil new features and Web enhancements to the Moms Panel site to further engage and educate inquiring guests on all their park-related questions.

How to Apply:

The Moms Panel search begins online, www.disneyworldmoms.com/2010, Sept. 10, and will close on Sept. 20, or when 20,000 applications are received, whichever comes first. The application process begins with a series of questions and three brief essays – about his or her family, why he or she is a great Walt Disney World vacation planner and his or her favorite Disney vacationing tip. Following the search, the 10 best candidates will ultimately be named to the Moms Panel in January 2010. In exchange for sharing their Disney knowledge, panelists will receive a vacation at Walt Disney World Resort for themselves and three other people.

“The goal of the panel is to create a resource for vacation planners to obtain valuable insights from moms just like them on what might be considered vacation challenges,” said Crofton. “As most parents look to friends and family for advice, consider the Moms Panel an extended network of real parents who have helped plan hundreds of Disney trips and who are literally, Disney know-it-alls.”

To learn more about the 2010 Walt Disney World Moms Panel Search, please visit www.disneyworldmoms.com/2010.

About the Walt Disney World Moms Panel

Entering its third year, the Walt Disney World Moms Panel is an online forum where guests can get insider tips and insights for vacationing at Walt Disney World Resort from real moms and dads who have mastered the art of planning a Walt Disney World vacation. Due to the overwhelming response since its launch in 2008, Disney increased its panel from 12 to 16 members for 2009, featuring 15 moms and one Disney dad. Each panelist was selected to share their vast knowledge of the resort and personal secrets of success with other families who are considering a trip to Walt Disney World Resort in Florida. Guests can pose questions to the panelists, as well as gain access to other valuable park insights and vacation planning tools for booking a Walt Disney World vacation. For more information, visit www.disneyworldmoms.com.

CELEBRATION, Fla. (Sept. 11, 2009) – For the first time ever, Disney Cruise Line will offer Alaskan cruises during a four-month season of seven-night sailings aboard the Disney Wonder in summer 2011. Combining the natural wonder and adventurous spirit of Alaska with the unparalleled, family-friendly experience provided by Disney Cruise Line, the Disney Wonder will depart out of Vancouver, B.C., calling on popular ports such as Juneau, Ketchikan and Skagway.

Before and after the 2011 summer season in Alaska, the Disney Wonder will sail seven-night Mexican Riviera cruises from the Port of Los Angeles to Cabo San Lucas, Mazatlán and Puerto Vallarta.

In response to guest demand, the Disney Magic will once again return to the Mediterranean in 2011 with 10- and 11-night cruises sailing out of Barcelona. In addition to popular ports in Italy, France and Spain, the Disney Magic will visit Tunis in northern Africa and the island nation of Malta.

“We’re excited to offer this incredible choice of itineraries for 2011, with cruise vacation options for every family – whether that’s outdoor adventure in Alaska, the beauty and culture of Europe, folklore and pageantry of Mexico or tropical fun in the Caribbean,” said Disney Cruise Line President Karl Holz. “The unique advantage of Disney Cruise Line is that we offer a customized ship experience that brings families together, while still catering to the personalized vacation needs of every guest who sails with us.”

Disney Cruise Line also will offer a number of repositioning cruises and special sailings in 2011, including a 15-night Panama Canal crossing, two 14-night transatlantic voyages, a five- and six-night cruise from Los Angeles to Vancouver, and Vancouver to Los Angeles, with first-ever stops in San Francisco and Victoria, B.C., and 10- and 11-night holiday sailings to the Mexican Riviera and the eastern Caribbean.

Guests will be able to book Disney Wonder and Disney Magic itineraries for the 2011 season beginning Sept. 28, 2009.

Disney Wonder 2011 ScheduleDeparting out of Vancouver, the Disney Wonder will sail a total of 18 seven-night cruises to Alaska for the 2011 summer season, calling on Tracy Arm, Skagway, Juneau and Ketchikan.

As part of the new Alaska itinerary, Disney Cruise Line guests will be able to experience breathtaking natural vistas, an abundance of wildlife and the rich history and customs of Alaska’s native culture. On their Alaskan adventure, guests may catch a glimpse of a brown bear, bald eagle or humpback whale, and explore magnificent glaciers and fjords in Juneau. In Ketchikan, guests can fish for some of the largest wild salmon in the world and learn about local culture through hand-carved totem poles. In Skagway, Disney Cruise Line guests can traverse panoramic landscapes by railway, or pan for gold like miners from the famous Klondike gold rush.

The first-ever Disney cruise to Alaska will depart on May 3 with the last cruise of the season scheduled for Aug. 30. Rates for the seven-night Alaskan itinerary start at $939 per person for a standard inside stateroom, based on double occupancy.

To prepare for the Alaska sailings, a brand-new venue called Outlook Café will be added to the Disney Wonder during dry dock in October. Located high atop deck 10, the 2,500-square-foot Outlook Café is a stylish retreat for guests to relax and enjoy a beverage or cocktail as they peer out through floor-to-ceiling, curved glass windows at breathtaking vistas. The design of Outlook Café is sophisticated with contemporary Art Deco inspiration. An elegant spiral staircase connects Outlook Café with the existing Cove Café one deck below. The 65-seat lounge has a granite-topped cocktail bar with comfortable seating throughout the space, all providing picture-perfect views of the surrounding landscapes.

Book-ending the 2011 summer season in Alaska, the Disney Wonder will sail seven-night itineraries to the Mexican Riviera. Rates for the seven-night Mexican Riviera itinerary start at $639 per person for a standard inside stateroom, based on double occupancy.

Disney Wonder 2011 - Alaska and Mexican Riviera

Seven-Night Alaska

5/3 to 9/6

Seven-Night Mexican Riviera

1/23 to 4/17 and 9/25 to 12/18

Prior to repositioning to Alaska, the Disney Wonder will sail a special 10-night Mexican Riviera voyage, including a stop at Manzanillo.

Disney Magic 2011 ScheduleDeparting out of Barcelona, the Disney Magic will sail 10- and 11-night Mediterranean itineraries for the 2011 summer season – a total of 10 sailings starting on May 28. Once again, guests will be able to explore the culture and beauty of Italy, France and Spain, with a family-friendly experience only Disney can deliver. This itinerary also includes visits to Tunis in northern Africa, the island nation of Malta, and Ajaccio, Corsica, an island oasis off the southern coast of France.

Rates for the 10- and 11-night Mediterranean cruises start at $1,739 per person for a standard inside stateroom, based on double occupancy.

For the majority of 2011, the Disney Magic will sail out of Port Canaveral on seven-night Caribbean itineraries – alternating eastern (St. Maarten and St. Thomas) and western (Key West, Grand Cayman and Cozumel). Both itineraries include a stop at Disney’s private island, Castaway Cay.

Disney Magic 2011 - Mediterranean

11-Night Mediterranean

5/28, 6/18, 7/9, 7/30, 8/20

10-Night Mediterranean

6/8, 6/29, 7/20, 8/10, 8/31

A leader in the family cruise segment, Disney Cruise Line delivers a vacation experience that every member of the family feels was created especially for them.

All pricing reflects a category 11C standard inside stateroom, Government Taxes and Fees not included. To learn more about Disney Cruise Line, to book a vacation or for more detail on offer terms and conditions, guests can contact their travel agent, visit disneycruise.com or call Disney Cruise Line at 888/DCL-2500. Travel agents can call Disney Cruise Line at 888/325-2500 or visit disneytravelagents.com.

Donald Duck finally discovers where Disney Cruise Line is going next. Disney Cruise Line will sail to Alaska for the first time in the summer of 2011. This will also be the first time a Disney cruise ship will call the West Coast home for an entire year. The Disney Wonder will sail seven-night Alaskan Cruises, departing from Vancouver, B.C., and visiting Juneau, Ketchikan and Skagway.

Tuesday, September 8, 2009

Donald Duck is on a mission to find out Disney Cruise Line's upcoming destinations and itineraries. See if he can solve the mystery before the itineraries are revealed on September 11. Visit www.disneycruise.com/2011 on Sept. 11 at 9:00 a.m Pacific / 12:00 p.m. Eastern to discover the secret LIVE.

The colorful new Lucky Fortune Cookery, debuting Friday, Sept. 4, 2009, is the newest addition to the variety of dining options at Disney’s California Adventure park. Located in the Pacific Wharf section of the park, Lucky Fortune Cookery offers guests the opportunity to create their own Asian Rice Bowl meals and enjoy them in an outdoor plaza.

· Lucky Fortune Cookery can be found in the location previously occupied by Cocina Cucamonga, which has relocated directly across the Pacific Wharf outdoor dining plaza

· Guests are served at the quick-service windows of Lucky Fortune Cookery and they dine at tables under festive umbrellas in the outdoor plaza at Pacific Wharf. The environment allows for a pleasant and flavorful break in the day at Disneyland Resort.

· The Menu: Customized Asian Rice Bowls are the specialty of Lucky Fortune Cookery. It starts with a bowl of steamed white and brown rice and seared Asian vegetables. Guests select chicken, beef or tofu, plus a sauce of their choice: Mandarin orange, spicy Korean, Thai green curry or teriyaki.

· The spicy Korean sauce is actually based on an old family recipe provided by Gloria Tae, chef de cuisine at the award-winning Napa Rose restaurant in Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa. All the sauce options were researched and taste-tested by Disney chefs as well as by cast members from diverse cultural backgrounds so that the final products would appeal to the broad variety of guests dining at Lucky Fortune Cookery.

· The Price: Each customized Asian Rice Bowl, regardless of ingredients, will cost $9.49. A kid’s meal of teriyaki chicken and rice, including fruit cup and choice of beverage, is available for guests age 9 and under for $6.49.

Thursday, September 3, 2009

A flash mob tea party takes over a Las Vegas convention as Disney announces new Wonderland-inspired fashions coming in 2010. Tim Burtons interpretation of this classic is about to change the way you think of fashion; featuring jewelry inspirations from Tom Binns.

Wednesday, September 2, 2009

LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla., Sept. 1, 2009 -- The Fifth Annual MEAC/SWAC Challenge presented by Disney kicks off Thursday,Sept. 3 with a fun-filled weekend of activities leading up to game day. The events include a career panel for local high school students followed by three separate competitions including an exciting match-up on the gridiron, a southern-style feast off the field and an entertaining performance on the stage. The MEAC/SWAC Challenge presented by Disney pits South Carolina State University, the current defending champion of the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference (MEAC), against Grambling State University, which is the 2008 title winner of the Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC). This is the second consecutive year that the Florida Citrus Bowl has hosted the MEAC/SWAC football rivalry.

“We are excited to celebrate this rich college tradition that gives enthusiastic football fans from throughout the eastern seaboard another reason to visit Central Florida,” said Eugene Campbell, vice president of Community Relations and Minority Business Development for Walt Disney World Resort. “We are proud to sponsor this game as a way to not only support the African-American community and the 25 Historically Black Colleges and Universities in the Mid-Eastern and Southwestern Athletic Conferences, but also as an opportunity to grow this event into another highly ranked national football game that will have a positive economic impact on Central Florida.”

The weekend highlights include:

Thursday, Sept. 3ESPN 101 Career Panel, 8 a.m. – 10 a.m.Approximately 600 local high school juniors and seniors interested in pursuing careers in sports and entertainment will attend the ESPN 101 High School Career Panel at the Disney-sponsored Boys & Girls Club in Pine Hills. Students from Edgewater, Evans, Jones, Oak Ridge, Wekiva and Ocoee High Schools will learn about the wide world of job opportunities within the sports business from a panel of industry professionals. This year’s panelists include ESPN SportsCenter co-host Jay Harris; Robert Vowels, NCAA vice president of educational affairs; Gerald Jones, Tampa Bay Buccaneers business development manager; Valerie Royal, manager of Minority Business Development for Walt Disney World Resort, and more.

Friday, Sept. 4MEAC/SWAC Challenge Kickoff Banquet, 8 p.m. Disney’s Hollywood Studios serves as the back drop for coaches, student-athletes, team representatives, community leaders and sponsors as they celebrate the Fifth Annual MEAC/SWAC Challenge presented by Disney college football game. The highlight of the evening includes the presentation of the Walter Payton award, which will honor a deserving player from each school. This year’s keynote speaker is Pro- Bowl Hall of Famer Kellen Winslow. SportsCenter anchor Jay Harris will emcee the banquet.

Saturday, Sept. 5 Disney STEP Classic, 9 a.m. – 7 p.m. The Disney STEP Classic offers a full day of exhilarating musical entertainment and choreography at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. Dozens of high school and college teams from the eastern United States take center stage on Saturday to showcase their best step routines and compete for top prizes totaling $20,000 in cash and scholarships. The top three winners will be showcased on the Pre-Game Stage before the MEAC/SWAC Challenge presented by Disney and will be recognized during halftime. Magic Music Days Performance, 2:45 p.m. As part of the MEAC/SWAC Challenge presented by Disney “Fan Day,” South Carolina State University’s Marching Band will parade down Main Street, U.S.A. at Magic Kingdom just prior to Celebrate a Dream Come True Parade.

Legends Dinner, 6 p.m. Several notable legends, including athletes and musicians from the MEAC and SWAC will be honored during an evening tribute to their legacy at the Atlantic Dance Hall at Walt Disney World Resort. Grammy award-winning gospel artist Smokie Norful (University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff) and former NFL cornerback Everson Walls (Grambling State University) are among those who will be recognized. Sunday, Sept. 6The Heart and Soul Tailgate, 10 a.m.The Heart and Soul Tailgate party features the best in gospel talent, games, fun and food. Fans can start the day at McCracken Field, located just outside the Florida Citrus Bowl, with the best collard greens in the south from the winner of the Collard Green Cook-off along with soul food from some of the best restaurants in Central Florida. ·

Fifth Annual MEAC/SWAC Challenge presented by Disney, 2 p.m. This year’s event features the MEAC’s South Carolina State University against the SWAC’s Grambling State University. The game will be televised live to a national audience on ESPN2 HD and ESPN360.com. This will be the first time these two teams have met since 1994. The MEAC leads the series 3-1. · Battle of the Bands – Florida Citrus Bowl (Halftime) South Carolina State and Grambling State bands will hit the turf during half-time to entertain football fans with their innovative and upbeat routines in hopes of winning their own on-field battle.

Sponsoring this annual football game is part of Walt Disney World Resort’s commitment to diversity and inclusion, which helps drive growth, creativity and innovation. Evidence of that commitment is seen through the company’s involvement with such organizations as the FAMU Law School, Bethune Cookman’s Hospitality College, Disney Entrepreneur Center, African American Chamber of Commerce, Hispanic Chamber of Commerce of Metro Orlando, Florida Minority Supplier Development Council and Hispanic Business Investment Fund of Florida.